Unsafe vessels and major deficiencies

Contact our media team on phone number +61 1300 624 633 during regular Australian business hours, or email media@amsa.gov.au. We will respond outside of business hours during search and rescue operations and emergencies.

We understand it can be a difficult time when managing the affairs for a deceased estate. If this person was the holder of an AMSA certificate, accreditation or registration, then AMSA must be notified as soon as practical after the person passes away.

Who to contact

Our AMSA Connect customer service team are available to assist you on 1800 627 484 or amsaconnect@amsa.gov.au , Monday to Friday from 8 am to 5 pm Australia-wide.

A single point of contact will be assigned to your case to assist and guide you through the process of updating details, making it as easy as possible for you.

What I need to know

The information below describes the process for changing and updating details so you know what to expect when you call us. The steps will depend on the type of permissions, certificates, accreditation or registration held by the person or their vessel.

You will also be asked to provide evidence indicating that the certificate/registration holder is deceased. This evidence may include:

a copy of the death certificate or a copy of the Will/Probate

a copy of a funeral notice

a letter from a solicitor or state Trustee and Guardian advising that the person is deceased

a copy of the coroner’s report

a 'presumption of Death Order' issued by the Supreme Court in the case of a missing person presumed deceased.

Holder of a certificate of competency

If the deceased person is the holder of a certificate of competency, then the certificate will need to be revoked as this type of certificate cannot transfer from one person to another. This can be done by contacting AMSA Connect.

Holder of a certificate of operation

If the deceased person is the holder of a certificate of operation, then the certificate will need to be revoked as this type of certificate cannot transfer from one person to another. The new operator (if applicable) must make an application for a new certificate of operation, which includes a declaration made by the applicant regarding their status as a fit and proper person to conduct the proposed operation.

Holder of a certificate of survey (or other vessel permission)

If the deceased person is the holder of a certificate of survey or other vessel permission, the process and actions required will depend on the type of ownership arrangements—company, sole trader, trust or individual.

In most cases, it will be possible to vary the certificate of survey or other vessel permissions for the new owner if the vessel will continue to be operated as a domestic commercial vessel. If the vessel will no longer be used for commercial purposes, then the executor of the estate should apply to have the certificate of survey or vessel permission revoked.

Owner of a ship on the Australian General Shipping Register

If the deceased person is the registered owner of a vessel on the Australian General Shipping Register, then the ownership of the ship must be transmitted to the beneficiary, by operation of law, as set out in the will of the deceased or in letters of administration. If the vessel is sold during the distribution of assets for the estate of the deceased, the executor/s may sign the Bill of Sale on behalf of the deceased.

Owner of a beacon or maritime mobile service identity (MMSI)

If the deceased person was the owner of a beacon or MMSI, the register will need to be updated depending on the situation. AMSA will need to know if the device has been sold, given away, destroyed or placed into storage. If the device has been sold or given away we will require the new owner’s name, address and phone number.

What you will receive from AMSA

Your single point of contact within AMSA will liaise with business areas on your behalf to ensure all relevant requirements are completed. They will contact you if there are any issues or further requirements.

You will also receive confirmation that all processes have been finalised and closed.